OTAGO ROWING CLUB.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19295, 6 October 1924, Page 5

OTAGO ROWING CLUB.

SEASON OFFICIALLY OPENED,

The Otago Rowing Club’s season was officially opened on Saturday aiternoon. The inclemency of the weather did not deter a large number o£ members and supporters from attending the function. In the unavoidable absence of Mr M. il. Priest (vice-president), the season was declared open by Mr H. E. Lyon, an old member. Mr A. Massey (captain) made tomo appropriate remarks to members of the-club. Speeches were also made by repreentatives of kindred clubs, who wished Vhe Otago Club every success during the coming season. Opportunity was taken to make a presentation to Mr S. Paris, who is leaving Dunedin shortly for Australia. Mr Paris has been a prominent member of the club for some years, having stroked the maiden crew successfully towards the end of last season. He is well known in athletic dries, having acted in the capacity of trainer to the Pirates Football Club’s first fifteen, as well as being prominent in boxing and swimming circles. Mr J. H. Brown, when presenting Mr Paris with a case of pipes, referred to his good sporting qualities, and wished him every success in his new pherc. Mr Paris feelingly responded. Although tile weather was boisterous, two crews wont out for a spin The visitors and members were afterwards provided with refreshments. A glance round the club’s shed revealed the excellent condition of the plant. This speaks volumes for the work which has been accomplished by members during the past six weeks. Each skiff has been cleaned and has received two coats of varnish. The approach to the boatshed has also been considerably improved, and in this connection the club lias been fortunate in having the asistaneo of Mr A. Juris?, who. was thanked for his good work. Valuable assistance has also beau rendered by Mr Hoddinoth, who has boon an untiring supporter of the club for some years. Mr Juris? said that bo would willingly give assistance to club members in the matter of coaching crew's for regattas and in general giving instruction to novices. As regards membership, the club is fortunate in already having secured 12 now active members for the season, including several ptomnent oarsmen from other eontios. 'lbis in itself should be an assurance that the club will be worthily represented at all regattas during the present season.